Crazy Driving Getting Worse

[Jdasta]

Everyday now when I leave the house I say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red Toyota Rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.I enjoyed driving then. What has happened?

[Jayhawk]

Everyday now when I leave the house I say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red Toyota Rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.I enjoyed driving then. What has happened?

What was the common denominator?

:boom:

[fdpaq0580]

One thing people forget about, or just don't realize, until its too late. The door post/windshield frame can hide stationary and moving objects. Small and LARGE. Be careful! Very careful, always. You may or may not see them. Do they, can they see you?

[Robbb]

What was the common denominator?

:boom:

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

[BigDawgInLakeDenham]

What was the common denominator?

:boom:
Ha! That's what I was thinking!

[Michael G.]

F Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

Unless an accident already happened, then their all over blocking traffic.
Yep, been here 8 years and seen only on traffic stop and that was a 18 wheeler. :doh:

[fdpaq0580]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

And, if they did, where would they pull over to? There are no shoulders, curb lanes, virtually anywhere. Like to see a corvette climb the curb onto the lawn like worker trucks.
Just too many speeders and reckless drivers and no place to safely catch them. Have to follow them until they find a parking lot or go thru a gate into the villages.

[Safety Ranger]

Heres the view thru my windshield... its not any one person or any one thing, but as a collective whole driving civility is gone... in todays me, me, me world with the demands of instant gratification it's, I have to be first, and fastest, cause I have places to be, AND I want to talk on the phone while driving.
This area, especially in the Vill, has so many contractors running up and down the roads to get to the next job, its hard to keep out of their way. and this notion of just slow down... that's not going to work either, society just doesn't march to the same drumbeat. Now think back to your younger yrs... your teens... how many cars per family? 1 more than likely... today probably 4 (plus the toys)... do the math..
I was fortunate to have spent some time living in Texas, where signs all over the place reminded everyone to "Drive Friendly" Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over. You keep you safe! The rest will sort itself out. and when all else fails... Invest in a dash cam... works wonders in court.

[VApeople]

so many contractors running up and down the roads to get to the next job, its hard to keep out of their way.

No its not!

I am a slow driver and the fast drivers do not bother me at all. I just go along at my speed and I don't have a problem with the drivers who want to faster than me.

[Pondboy]

I understand that the city of Wildwood recently hired a new patrol officer. Total of 4 now. They have been setting up speed traps on Warm Springs Ave for the past few months. So perhaps that’s a step forward.

Snowbirds in town don’t help the madness on the roads.

[Normal]

It seems some have blurred the difference between driving a car and golf cart maneuvering. Throw in some traffic circles and increase in grey car paint schemes and there are going to be some close calls. The great news is you saw close calls and not traffic fatalities.

[Normal]

I understand that the city of Wildwood recently hired a new patrol officer. Total of 4 now. They have been setting up speed traps on Warm Springs Ave for the past few months. So perhaps that’s a step forward.

Snowbirds in town don’t help the madness on the roads.

Wildwood purchased 3 unmarked police cars last month. It’s in the agenda minutes.

[Two Bills]

Wildwood purchased 3 unmarked police cars last month. It’s in the agenda minutes.

Next major complaint will be Wildwood PD overzealous, and booking far too many Village motorists!

[Normal]

Next major complaint will be Wildwood PD overzealous, and booking far too many Village motorists!

Can the police be overzealous at this point? Any zealous movement might be a positive for most.

[Pondboy]

Next major complaint will be Wildwood PD overzealous, and booking far too many Village motorists!



I found the article on Villages News. It stated that they use to have 500 traffic stops per month, they now have about 1000. Most of the tickets are being issued to Villagers.

[fdpaq0580]

No its not!

I am a slow driver and the fast drivers do not bother me at all. I just go along at my speed and I don't have a problem with the drivers who want to faster than me.

I approve this message.

[fdpaq0580]

I found the article on Villages News. It stated that they use to have 500 traffic stops per month, they now have about 1000. Most of the tickets are being issued to Villagers.

Not surprised, I'm sad to say.

[photo1902]

Unless an accident already happened, then their all over blocking traffic.
Yep, been here 8 years and seen only on traffic stop and that was a 18 wheeler. :doh:

You must not get out much

[coralway]

Why all the complaining? Folks love Florida because here they are “free” citizens living in a “free” state. So, “free” citizens enjoy it. In a “free” state, it’s every man, and woman, for themselves.

[BobnBev]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

And you can thank the developer for that, he's bought and paid for 3 incompetent Sheriffs. Law enforcement = fewer home sales.

[Djean1981]

Good point...

[Altavia]

Wildwood purchased 3 unmarked police cars last month. It’s in the agenda minutes.

It is a little like the wild west on the roads here. Much worse South of 44 since the new schools opened. Don't get in the way of a soccer mom running late taking/picking up the kids at school in Middleton...

Motorcycle Traffic Enforcement would be very cost effective here.

[Normal]

It is a little like the wild west on the roads here. Much worse South of 44 since the new schools opened. Don't get in the way of a soccer mom running late taking/picking up the kids at school in Middleton...

Motorcycle Traffic Enforcement would be very cost effective here.

If you ask me, it kind of makes it fun. A challenge to driving never implies boredom.

[Altavia]

If you ask me, it kind of makes it fun. A challenge to driving never implies boredom.

Seems best to just stay out of their way.

Anyone who drives slower than me is an idiot. Those who drive faster are maniacs :-)

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

Why all the complaining? Folks love Florida because here they are “free” citizens living in a “free” state. So, “free” citizens enjoy it. In a “free” state, it’s every man, and woman, for themselves.

And freedom implies that we can drive our cars without getting banged into by other cars. I’m glad we have such low speed limits because that means only our cars get hurt, not ourselves.

[photo1902]

And freedom implies that we can drive our cars without getting banged into by other cars. I’m glad we have such low speed limits because that means only our cars get hurt, not ourselves.

You missed the “Sarcasm Alert” sign

[Pairadocs]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

Many say it's all "snowbirds", to me that's nonsense. Eighteen years ago when we built our home here, you would not have even thought about going over 35 down Buena Vista or any other main street...there were police hidden behind every tree and bush, hidden by the gates to the polo grounds, behind bushes down by the "then new" Lake Sumter area, and same on Morris. Large signs also proclaimed "GOLF CART community, slow down", and so on. What's changed ? No local police force as in many towns and cities our residents came from, so, we must depend on the local sheriff's office employees who, by the looks of the crime, drugs, and even killings in this and the surrounding communities seems to be more than any sheriff and deputies can handle. Probably, the speeding, and YES, it is absolutely unbelievable (we call it the Buena Vista 500 raceway, especially the YARD workers and their tandem trailers on big trucks) on the streets in one little development like The villages, pales compared to what the deputies have to face everyday in this area... just read the daily crime report ! (hint: you will not find it in the D.Sun )

[Pairadocs]

Heres the view thru my windshield... its not any one person or any one thing, but as a collective whole driving civility is gone... in todays me, me, me world with the demands of instant gratification it's, I have to be first, and fastest, cause I have places to be, AND I want to talk on the phone while driving.
This area, especially in the Vill, has so many contractors running up and down the roads to get to the next job, its hard to keep out of their way. and this notion of just slow down... that's not going to work either, society just doesn't march to the same drumbeat. Now think back to your younger yrs... your teens... how many cars per family? 1 more than likely... today probably 4 (plus the toys)... do the math..
I was fortunate to have spent some time living in Texas, where signs all over the place reminded everyone to "Drive Friendly" Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over. You keep you safe! The rest will sort itself out. and when all else fails... Invest in a dash cam... works wonders in court.

Agree with your response; would only add that since we do not have a typical/traditional police force here, we have to rely on county deputies. One glace at the serious crime in this area, and in the villages itself, will tell you the deputies are probably spread so thin now, they certainly can't spend time sitting in cars on Buena Vista and Morris and the other major arteries like they did 18 years ago... when break in's, armed robbery, abuse of seniors, air B&B's, drug houses, child molesters and pornographers, domestic battery, drunken driving and brawls, and homicides were nearly unheard of in the V's. No so today, but my guess is (don't know) the number of deputies for the entire three counties is not that much larger than it was years back ? The Villages "security" trucks... well, we all know how much security they, and the gates provide, so, perhaps we need new sheriff's, or we just need to inquire if the sheriff has sufficient help to keep everyone safe,not just the V's ! ?

[Topspinmo]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

I’ve seen speed trap twice in 10 years. The actual caught someone.

[asianthree]

Drove past a Wildwood car with a person in it at 3am this morning. Their daily presence on Meggison seems to be a definite bonus/income to the department.

Big change from the multiple empty sheriffs car on side of the roads for weeks at a time.:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Blackbird45]

The one issue I have even though I love the traffic circles which keeps traffic flow moving. Is while you're rounding the circle there is always one driver who is aware your there and enters at the next entrance anyway and in many cases slows down after they merge. You get the feeling they want to get into an accident.

[thevillager1988]

I was coming back from Walgreens at Lake Deaton, driving at the posted speed limit, back to the traffic circle on Morse. An elderly gentleman was coming out of the plaza turning left in front of me, looking me right in the eye (I was that close) as he pulled out in front of me. He was effectively saying, "I'm pulling out now, and it's your job to avoid me." Of course I was paying attention, driving defensively, and it all went fine. Let's be careful out there. ;-)

[TeresaA]

Everyday now when I leave the house I say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red Toyota Rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.I enjoyed driving then. What has happened?


Don’t forget now, this is a retirement community full of elderly people that you chose to move to. Driving abilities become less & less. If you don’t have issues now, you soon will too. Just saying. Drive extra cautious

[Normal]

Don’t forget now, this is a retirement community full of elderly people that you chose to move to. Driving abilities become less & less. If you don’t have issues now, you soon will too. Just saying. Drive extra cautious

Great post!

[huge-pigeons]

“Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over.”
Life would be so much easier if the slow people on the roads and on the golf cart paths would just pull over or drive in the right lane then you wouldn’t have all of this weaving in and out.
Also, when you come to a roundabout, if nobody is coming on your left side, there is no need to slow down to go thru the roundabout. Most roundabouts you can see for a block if somebody is in the roundabout on your left. I see a lot of people almost come to a stop when entering the roundabout with no cars in sight, this is not the way to drive. You yield if somebody is in the roundabout or you drive thru it at the speed limit if no cars in sight.
I almost got hit by 2 different T&D Pool workers at 2 different roundabouts. I called the company to tell them and what the drivers looked like.

[Cheapbas]

One thing people forget about, or just don't realize, until its too late. The door post/windshield frame can hide stationary and moving objects. Small and LARGE. Be careful! Very careful, always. You may or may not see them. Do they, can they see you?

This is a great point, ours is so thick it hides a golf cart traveling for a good 75 yards.

[Girlcopper]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.

No cops because they’re busy handling more important calls than a traffic complaint.

[VApeople]

Most roundabouts you can see for a block if somebody is in the roundabout on your left.

What does the word 'block' mean?

[NoMo50]

And you can thank the developer for that, he's bought and paid for 3 incompetent Sheriffs. Law enforcement = fewer home sales.

Who might those be? Bill Farmer has been the Sheriff in Sumter County since 1997.

[birdawg]

April things will get better

[G.R.I.T.S.]

One thing people forget about, or just don't realize, until its too late. The door post/windshield frame can hide stationary and moving objects. Small and LARGE. Be careful! Very careful, always. You may or may not see them. Do they, can they see you?

👍 I have pulled some boneheaded moves for that very reason. I now move forward to see around the post and large door mirror.

[JGibson]

“Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over.”
Life would be so much easier if the slow people on the roads and on the golf cart paths would just pull over or drive in the right lane then you wouldn’t have all of this weaving in and out.
Also, when you come to a roundabout, if nobody is coming on your left side, there is no need to slow down to go thru the roundabout. Most roundabouts you can see for a block if somebody is in the roundabout on your left. I see a lot of people almost come to a stop when entering the roundabout with no cars in sight, this is not the way to drive. You yield if somebody is in the roundabout or you drive thru it at the speed limit if no cars in sight.
I almost got hit by 2 different T&D Pool workers at 2 different roundabouts. I called the company to tell them what the drivers looked like.

There are literally reduced speed 20 MPH speed limit signs for the roundabouts.

So the speed limit in a roundabout is 20 MPH just like the sign says.

Cops should sit near roundabouts and ticket everyone who is going more than 20 MPH in the roundabouts.

This is the crux of the problem folks think roundabouts are some type of autobahn and speed around the roundabouts.

They also need to cut down all the high shrubbery inside the roundabouts so we can see cars more easily in the roundabouts.

[Normal]

If you go to your physician’s office they have a fix. “Take two aspirin and call me again in May.”

[Joe C.]

Lots of bad drivers here in the Villages ..... but not so bad as in some other places. Just came back from Mauritius (Indian Ocean) and the people drive like crazed idiots. Narrow, twisting, turning roads that are extremely narrow and hilly. A ride in one of their taxi cabs will up your blood pressure and test your anxiety.

[Joe C.]

There are literally reduced speed 20 MPH speed limit signs for the roundabouts.

So the speed limit in a roundabout is 20 MPH just like the sign says.

Cops should sit near roundabouts and ticket everyone who is going more than 20 MPH in the roundabouts.

This is the crux of the problem folks think roundabouts are some type of autobahn and speed around the roundabouts.

They also need to cut down all the high shrubbery inside the roundabouts so we can see cars more easily in the roundabouts.
Cops can't ticket you for doing over the speed limit unless you are doing more than 5mph over the posted limit.

[ThirdOfFive]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.
I doubt you will, at least with anything resembling consistency. Apparently a traffic offense has to be pretty egregious before you get pulled over (one exception to that, below). My take on that, considering the power structure, is that rigorous enforcement of traffic laws goes directly against the "active senior lifestyle" slogan that is apparently instrumental in selling both the houses and the lifestyle of The Villages.

Exception: if the cops have you pegged as a potential troublemaker or petty lawbreaker. You don't see it here or in the Sun, but the Other Paper That Shall Not Be Named routinely runs stories about traffic arrests. A whole lot of those seem to take place in the "wee hours", involving things like obscured license plates, failure to dim lights for oncoming traffic, improper stop at a stop sign (apparently if you wheels are on or over the thick white line at stop signs you're violating the law) burned-out taillight, failure to signal, etc. etc. Such stops are inevitably followed up with the K-9 unit being called, the dog "alerts" to the possibility of drugs, the vehicle is searched, and contraband, paraphernalia or both are found, with the driver being toted off to the hoosegow.

The more I think about it, the more I think that the way things are done here regarding traffic enforcement is the right way to handle things. Cops keeping the pressure on the petty thugs helps keep crime under pretty good control, and there will always be folks who complain about the driving of other folks. I'd like to see a bit heavier enforcement, particularly regarding the scofflaws who think that doing 55 mph in a 35 mph zone is perfectly fine, but I don't think we'll ever see anything like the saturation enforcement that apparently some folks want. Nor should we.

[Notsure]

It is not only the Roundabouts and through streets. I was in the parking lot at HomeGoods yesterday. Ever since they opened the additional access people do not stop at the cross street. There are STOP words painted on the pavement but nobody stops. Same thing near FreshMarket. People not stopping at STOP signs.

[Dilligas]

This is a great point, ours is so thick it hides a golf cart traveling for a good 75 yards.
That’s why you have side door mirrors. Most don’t know how to set their mirrors to not have a blind spot. Go online and watch the video on how to set side door mirrors without a blind spot.

[True Blue]

“Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over.”
Life would be so much easier if the slow people on the roads and on the golf cart paths would just pull over or drive in the right lane then you wouldn’t have all of this weaving in and out.
Also, when you come to a roundabout, if nobody is coming on your left side, there is no need to slow down to go thru the roundabout. Most roundabouts you can see for a block if somebody is in the roundabout on your left. I see a lot of people almost come to a stop when entering the roundabout with no cars in sight, this is not the way to drive. You yield if somebody is in the roundabout or you drive thru it at the speed limit if no cars in sight.
I almost got hit by 2 different T&D Pool workers at 2 different roundabouts. I called the company to tell them and what the drivers looked like.
You have to slow down - the speed limit in the roundabout is 20mph. I do agree though that too many people stop when there’s no car coming from the left.

[Bill14564]

Cops can't ticket you for doing over the speed limit unless you are doing more than 5mph over the posted limit.

Where do I find that in the Florida Statutes (which section)?

[Priebehouse]

And, if they did, where would they pull over to? There are no shoulders, curb lanes, virtually anywhere. Like to see a corvette climb the curb onto the lawn like worker trucks.
Just too many speeders and reckless drivers and no place to safely catch them. Have to follow them until they find a parking lot or go thru a gate into the villages.

A motorcycle cop stopped a driver over on Oak Forest the other day and the car pulled to the side but BLOCKED THE INTERSECTION of another street. Then the SCS cycle pulled right behind him fully blocking the street. So I have seen a lot more police activity here on the North end than I have in the 4 years I have been here, But I was surprised at this incident.:boxing2:

[d1nod1no]

It is too crowded here! Roads can't accommodate the population.

[Notsure]

Wondering if it is time for a few traffic cameras ….Morse and 466, 466A, 44….roundabouts near Walmart neighborhood market and Morse….would be cheaper than cops. A few photo tickets sent out would help slow things down. Even a sign saying PHOTO ENFORCEMENT would slow people down.

[Baringek]

Portable speed bumps would work.

[Gettingoutofdodge]

I found the article on Villages News. It stated that they use to have 500 traffic stops per month, they now have about 1000. Most of the tickets are being issued to Villagers.

I was going through the gate in Sanibel at the attendant side. I was a car length away and a golf cart crossed in front of me. He did not stop, he hit the gas instead of the break. He failed to merge. He was given a summons.
He was ejected from the cart and taken to the hospital. My car has $8100 worth of front end damage. It’s been a week and I am traumatized over this.

Lucky for me, it’s all in the police report. I was told by my insurance company and a sheriff when I picked up the report, that cars do not automatically have the right of way. It is determined on a one to one basis. The driver of the golf cart could sue me for damages. If he doesn’t have insurance, regardless of liability, my company would have to pay and go after him personally to recoup their losses.
The driver was from Illinois and said he never drove this golf cart. Not sure he ever drove any golf cart.
My insurance company is trying to get the video footage from the gate. The police report says I did not contribute to the accident. They want more proof.

Fellow Villagers, a car does not automatically have the right of way.
I am getting a dash cam and upping my uninsured driver coverage.

[gorillarick]

I was intimidated at first. Sped up (speeding) to make them happy.
Now, I slowly slow down.
If they don't back off from my bumper I go even slower, eventually stopping. F-um.

They scream and shake their fist, and show me the first digit of their 2-digit IQ.

No you don't have a right to drive dangerously, intimidate, speeding, weaving thru traffic, road rage.


Not too many years ago, I had a tailgater and using a cell phone (texting). He ran into my rear at a yield sign. Towed his car to a repair shop. I had damage, but at least drivable.

[Bilyclub]

I was intimidated at first. Sped up (speeding) to make them happy.
Now, I slowly slow down.
If they don't back off from my bumper I go even slower, eventually stopping. F-um.

They scream and shake their fist, and show me the first digit of their 2-digit IQ.
No you don't have a right to drive dangerously, intimidate, speeding, weaving thru traffic, road rage.
Not too many years ago, I had a tailgater and using a cell phone (texting). He ran into my rear at a yield sign. Towed his car to a repair shop. I had damage, but at least drivable.


If there are two lanes and you are in the left lane, Florida law states you must move over unless making a left turn or passing a vehicle in the right lane. No, you were not sworn in and given a badge to enforce traffic laws in your own twisted way.

[Bill14564]

I was going through the gate in Sanibel at the attendant side. I was a car length away and a golf cart crossed in front of me. He did not stop, he hit the gas instead of the break. He failed to merge. He was given a summons.
He was ejected from the cart and taken to the hospital. My car has $8100 worth of front end damage. It’s been a week and I am traumatized over this.

...


Fellow Villagers, a car does not automatically have the right of way.
I am getting a dash cam and upping my uninsured driver coverage.

No one automatically has the right of way.

We seem to think of "having the right of way" when instead we should think of "yielding the right of way." If you have the mindset that you have the right of way you assume others will yield to you to avoid a collision. If instead you have the mindset of yielding the right of way then you watch for others to yield but anticipate that they may not. One way says, "it's my road and I will share it when I choose to but not today." The other says, "I don't want to get into a collision today."

Cars do not automatically "have" the right of way. No one automatically "has" the right of way such that they can just barrel on through regardless of what the other person does. In any situation where two vehicles need to occupy the same space, there are rules about who should yield to the other. The rules indicate which vehicle "should" yield. However, the reality is that rules are often ignored.

NONE OF THE ABOVE IS MEANT TO IMPLY THAT YOU CONTRIBUTED TO THE ACCIDENT. If you chose to play chicken with the cart, if you decided that you had the right of way and were going to go through regardless of what the cart did, THEN you would have contributed to it. We ALL have the responsibility to avoid accidents, regardless of who supposedly "has the right of way." But, that isn't how you described the incident.

I've seen others recommend dash cams just for cases like this. I'm getting closer to purchasing a set for my vehicles.

[Topspinmo]

The one issue I have even though I love the traffic circles which keeps traffic flow moving. Is while you're rounding the circle there is always one driver who is aware your there and enters at the next entrance anyway and in many cases slows down after they merge. You get the feeling they want to get into an accident.


I like how the stop before entering roundabout when no traffic in roundabout and don’t stop at stops signs especially 4 way stops. You’re not in line till you stop preferably at or behind stops sign not front end out in intersection still creeping. :MOJE_whot:

[fdpaq0580]

That’s why you have side door mirrors. Most don’t know how to set their mirrors to not have a blind spot. Go online and watch the video on how to set side door mirrors without a blind spot.

You misunderstood. Side mirrors are for seeing behind and along side. The blinds pots in question are hidden by the windshield posts. To the front right and left sides.

[Topspinmo]

It is too crowded here! Roads can't accommodate the population.

I thought same thing till I went to Tampa. Holy moly 60 plus deep just get through stop light with 5 lanes. IMO only congested during bird season around here except for few through fares.

[gorillarick]

“Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over.”
Life would be so much easier if the slow people on the roads and on the golf cart paths would just pull over or drive in the right lane then you wouldn’t have all of this weaving in and out.
Also, when you come to a roundabout, if nobody is coming on your left side, there is no need to slow down to go thru the roundabout. Most roundabouts you can see for a block if somebody is in the roundabout on your left. I see a lot of people almost come to a stop when entering the roundabout with no cars in sight, this is not the way to drive. You yield if somebody is in the roundabout or you drive thru it at the speed limit if no cars in sight.
I almost got hit by 2 different T&D Pool workers at 2 different roundabouts. I called the company to tell them and what the drivers looked like.

Sounds like you feel entitled to drive fast all the time.
The near accidents were probably your fault.

[gorillarick]

If there are two lanes and you are in the left lane, Florida law states you must move over unless making a left turn or passing a vehicle in the right lane. No, you were not sworn in and given a badge to enforce traffic laws in your own twisted way.

Florida law says you cannot pass if you have to exceed the speed limit, and only when clear, completely clear.
Blow it.

I recently completed the Florida Mature Driving Course to try to reduce the price of my car insurance. It went up significantly after moving here.

[gorillarick]

If you are concerned with speeders, and tailgaters, and people entering the traffic circles dangerously,
Then stop speeding, and drive more cautiously.

Every year when we get a lot of new people here. We're just showing them that it is still OK to drive like a moron AH as they did back in suburban Dystopia.

Be the change you want to see in the world.
Mahatma Gandhi

[Bill14564]

Florida law says you cannot pass if you have to exceed the speed limit, and only when clear, completely clear.
Blow it.

I recently completed the Florida Mature Driving Course to try to reduce the price of my car insurance. It went up significantly after moving here.

Florida law certainly says you cannot exceed the speed limit. Florida may say you cannot exceed the speed limit to complete a pass (MD law was different, haven't looked in a while). But Florida law is very clear that if a car is approaching from behind you, you MUST move out of the left lane if safe to do so. It also says (316.083(5)) that you MUST NOT increase your speed to prevent someone from passing you.

Basically, it isn't your job to worry about the person going faster than you are, your responsibility is to get out of the left lane!

[gorillarick]

If you have $8100 damage to your going from a complete stop to hitting a golf cart, you must have been doing a 0 to 60 mph in as fast as your car can go.

FL law: No one has the right-of-way if there is the potential of causing an accident.

[gorillarick]

better re-read it. Doesn't say what you wish it said.

So you are one of the ones that drive like a

[photo1902]

Where do I find that in the Florida Statutes (which section)?

This

[Aces4]

Why all the complaining? Folks love Florida because here they are “free” citizens living in a “free” state. So, “free” citizens enjoy it. In a “free” state, it’s every man, and woman, for themselves.


And yet you and your approvers live here… that speaks volumes, thank you! :BigApplause::a20:

[Bill14564]

This

So 318.18(3)(b). Thank you.

Although.... One might say that you *were* ticketed but with a Warning rather than a monetary fine.

Plus... You cut off 318.18(3)(c) which imposes a $50 fine for exceeding the speed limit by up to 5mph in a school zone and 318.18(d) which imposes a $100 fine for exceeding the speed limit in a school zone. It's not clear to me what the differences between (c) and (d) are but to the point of this post, there are non-zero fines for both.

So again, ticketed is ticketed whether there is a fine or not and in some cases there is a fine even for going less than 5mph over the speed limit.

[photo1902]

So 318.18(3)(b). Thank you.

Although.... One might say that you *were* ticketed but with a Warning rather than a monetary fine.

Plus... You cut off 318.18(3)(c) which imposes a $50 fine for exceeding the speed limit by up to 5mph in a school zone and 318.18(d) which imposes a $100 fine for exceeding the speed limit in a school zone. It's not clear to me what the differences between (c) and (d) are but to the point of this post, there are non-zero fines for both.

So again, ticketed is ticketed whether there is a fine or not and in some cases there is a fine even for going less than 5mph over the speed limit.

Big difference between receiving a warning and a ticket. Especially concerning auto insurance.

Here you go, for your entire reading pleasure Just a moment... (https://codes.findlaw.com/fl/title-xxiii-motor-vehicles/fl-st-sect-318-18/)

[Bill14564]

Big difference between receiving a warning and a ticket. Especially concerning auto insurance.

Here you go, for your entire reading pleasure Just a moment... (https://codes.findlaw.com/fl/title-xxiii-motor-vehicles/fl-st-sect-318-18/)

What was it about my reply that gave you the impression I had not read the statute?

[photo1902]

What was it about my reply that gave you the impression I had not read the statute?

Geesh. I never said you didn't. I included it for everyone's edification. Sorry for ruining your whole day.

[art32163]

I didn’t read all of the comments, but this happens all the time … just chill leave more space in front and let them cut … so what if they get the 10 seconds faster
I do 280 miles a day up and down the thruway and all over the Villages and if you just take your time don’t let anyone get under you skin, it will be alright…. Just slow down …. Speed limits are there for a reason …. Respect them and all you fellow humans

[art32163]

Be kind

[jimjamuser]

Everyday now when I leave the house I say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red Toyota Rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.I enjoyed driving then. What has happened?
What has happened? Covid happened.........in my opinion.
.........I can't prove that, but I can offer up a possibility. Covid showed people exactly how frail their lives really are - how they are NOT in control. When life itself has no stability, why drive WITHIN the rules. The Covid virus was NOT responding to rules, so WHY should the vehicle drivers?

[jimjamuser]

One thing people forget about, or just don't realize, until its too late. The door post/windshield frame can hide stationary and moving objects. Small and LARGE. Be careful! Very careful, always. You may or may not see them. Do they, can they see you?
That's true. But, because of that fact, drivers should have SLOWED down to COMPENSATE for that. However, it seems like drivers sped up and took MORE chances, more RISKY behaving in the last 3 or so years.

[mrf0151]

It is snowbird season and with that there are a lot more drivers on the road. More drivers equal more chance of problems. Some of these people driving in TV are first timers here and so they are not familiar with the roundabouts and roads in general. I see many driving like they are lost, and they no doubt are.

[jimjamuser]

For me the common denominator is, there are simply no long police patrolling traffic. I drive down Morse every day and every fing day see drivers doing well over 50+, weaving in and out of traffic. Every day!!! Never have I seen a cop pulling anyone over.
I agree with that. But WHY are there so few Police? Is it to keep taxes lower? If people cost too much, then we should substitute with increased new technology. I thought that tickets could be issued when a traffic camera reveals a obvious unsafe driving action like weaving or speeding. Cameras should be more cost effective than more police in more vehicles.

[jimjamuser]

I found the article on Villages News. It stated that they use to have 500 traffic stops per month, they now have about 1000. Most of the tickets are being issued to Villagers.
If double the stops are true, then maybe after a year or so of increased stops the drivers will come into compliance. One can only hope!

[jimjamuser]

And you can thank the developer for that, he's bought and paid for 3 incompetent Sheriffs. Law enforcement = fewer home sales.
That is a possibility, but it would be very shortsighted. Overall, eventually it will LOWER the quality of The Village experience.

[jimjamuser]

And freedom implies that we can drive our cars without getting banged into by other cars. I’m glad we have such low speed limits because that means only our cars get hurt, not ourselves.
Low speed limits are meaningless if they are NOT enforced. And I am sure that some people have died from low speed collisions.

[jimjamuser]

It is too crowded here! Roads can't accommodate the population.
That could be said about anywhere in Florida for the last 50 years.

[Pamelah]

Why all the complaining? Folks love Florida because here they are “free” citizens living in a “free” state. So, “free” citizens enjoy it. In a “free” state, it’s every man, and woman, for themselves.
Until you want to read a certain book and then it’s not free

[Aces4]

Until you want to read a certain book and then it’s not free

You can read any book, I would imagine. Order it on Amazon and then proceed to read it to your children.

I think not every parent wants everything written today readily available for their child to read. Such as how to build and explode a nuclear weapon.

This system provides choice and doesn’t step on any ones toes.

[Bill14564]

You can read any book, I would imagine. Order it on Amazon and then proceed to read it to your children.

...

If this comment survives the night I will reject it in the morning.

[vintageogauge]

I was intimidated at first. Sped up (speeding) to make them happy.
Now, I slowly slow down.
If they don't back off from my bumper I go even slower, eventually stopping. F-um.

They scream and shake their fist, and show me the first digit of their 2-digit IQ.

No you don't have a right to drive dangerously, intimidate, speeding, weaving thru traffic, road rage.


Not too many years ago, I had a tailgater and using a cell phone (texting). He ran into my rear at a yield sign. Towed his car to a repair shop. I had damage, but at least drivable.

You are also slowing down everyone behind him, nice of you to do that and what gives you the right to cause a dangerous situation. It has been proven that more accidents are caused by slow drivers than by those speeding. Just move over and let him go around you, problem solved.

[Aces4]

If this comment survives the night I will reject it in the morning.

Why did you find the comment to which I provided insight objectionable? I don’t understand your statement.

Threatening a poster with a different point of view is disconcerting, to say the least.

[jimjamuser]

You can read any book, I would imagine. Order it on Amazon and then proceed to read it to your children.

I think not every parent wants everything written today readily available for their child to read. Such as how to build and explode a nuclear weapon.

This system provides choice and doesn’t step on any ones toes.
Actually, it does step on SOME peoples toes. School teachers in Florida can NOT decide for themselves what to teach. So, they go to other states with more FREEDOM and Florida loses out on good teachers. And also their sales tax expenditures. And then the school pupils lose out on good teachers and end up with larger class sizes.
.........Sounds like a lose - lose situation to me.

[jimjamuser]

You are also slowing down everyone behind him, nice of you to do that and what gives you the right to cause a dangerous situation. It has been proven that more accidents are caused by slow drivers than by those speeding. Just move over and let him go around you, problem solved.
Ideally all drivers are going the same, correct for the circumstances, speed. (maybe driver-less cars will do that and be safer in the future) Today, the best to be hoped for is that there are enough Police watching and ticketing bad driving to influence the drivers in the right direction.
...........Agreed that excessive lane changing is probably the least safe behavior.

[Aces4]

Actually, it does step on SOME peoples toes. School teachers in Florida can NOT decide for themselves what to teach. So, they go to other states with more FREEDOM and Florida loses out on good teachers. And also their sales tax expenditures. And then the school pupils lose out on good teachers and end up with larger class sizes.
.........Sounds like a lose - lose situation to me.

I do know from my school experiences that there are some teaching and bragging about living on the edge.


In my case, not noteworthy instructors. Example from a female teacher in grade school: “watch out if a girl says she will uncurl your epididymis.” Every grade schooler needs that information. Some teachers are worth losing…

[Randall55]

The one issue I have even though I love the traffic circles which keeps traffic flow moving. Is while you're rounding the circle there is always one driver who is aware your there and enters at the next entrance anyway and in many cases slows down after they merge. You get the feeling they want to get into an accident.I am going to get quite a bit of argument over this...here goes! If you are travelling straight thru a roundabout, it does not give you the right of way. If two vehicles enter the roundabout at the same time, the driver to the right GOES FIRST. They are not cutting in front if you. You are meant to reduce your speed and allow the other driver to enter. You do not fly thru the circle without any concern for vehicles on the side exits. Yes! Roundabouts are meant to keep traffic flowing. FOR ALL VEHICLES. Not merely those who are travelling straight thru. Slow down and yield are the rules.

[Bill14564]

I am going to get quite a bit of argument over this...here goes! If you are travelling straight thru a roundabout, it does not give you the right of way. If two vehicles enter the roundabout at the same time, the driver to the right GOES FIRST. They are not cutting in front if you. You are meant to reduce your speed and allow the other driver to enter. You do not fly thru the circle without any concern for vehicles on the side exits. Yes! Roundabouts are meant to keep traffic flowing. FOR ALL VEHICLES. Not merely those who are travelling straight thru. Slow down and yield are the rules.

You are going to get quite a bit of argument because you are still wrong.

If two vehicles enter from different entrances they will be physically separated and will not interfere with each other.

If two vehicles enter from the same entrance then their allowed paths through the roundabout do not intersect and they will not interfere with each other.

If drivers follow the rules, the roundabouts pose no problems. If drivers do not follow the rules then all bets are off whether the drivers are in a roundabout or simply driving down Pinellas Ave.

[Randall55]

You are going to get quite a bit of argument because you are still wrong.

If two vehicles enter from different entrances they will be physically separated and will not interfere with each other.

If two vehicles enter from the same entrance then their allowed paths through the roundabout do not intersect and they will not interfere with each other.

If drivers follow the rules, the roundabouts pose no problems. If drivers do not follow the rules then all bets are off whether the drivers are in a roundabout or simply driving down Pinellas Ave.I read these posts and people are constantly complaining about getting cut off. If a vehicle is in front of you and needs to cross your path, you slow down and allow them. That is the rule. They are not ruining your day by being a jerk. I really wish drivers would understand this.

Two cars ABSOLUTELY can arrive at a roundabout at the same time. If you are heading straight thru and see a vehicle on the right side exit, you do not automatically make that driver wait while you sail through. Rule of traffic: when two vehicles enter an intersection at the same time, the person on the right goes first. In a roundabout, you reduce your speed and allow them to cross your path. This keeps traffic moving FOR EVERYONE

[Bill14564]

I read these posts and people are constantly complaining about getting cut off. If a vehicle is in front of you and needs to cross your path, you slow down and allow them. That is the rule. They are not ruining your day by being a jerk. I really wish drivers would understand this.

Two cars ABSOLUTELY can arrive at a roundabout at the same time. If you are heading straight thru and see a vehicle on the right side exit, you do not automatically make that driver wait while you sail through. Rule of traffic: when two vehicles enter an intersection at the same time, the person on the right goes first. In a roundabout, you reduce your speed and allow them to cross your path. This keeps traffic moving FOR EVERYONE

Wrong on both counts.

Imagine you have just turned onto Hillsborough from Morse (obviously, you are traveling west) and reach Charlotte Ct. there is a car on Charlotte Ct that pulls out from Charlotte Ct into your lane forcing you to hit the brakes to avoid hitting them. This is your example of a car on the right entering the roundabout. If the timing of the car entering causes you to hit the brakes then it is in the wrong. Certainly, you don't hit it, but you *do* recognize they were in the wrong.

When two vehicles arrive at the same time at an intersection with a stop sign, the car to the right goes first. When two cars arrive at an intersection that says "yield to vehicles on the left" or "vehicles from the left do not stop", then the car to the right yields. *That* is the sign that is posted at the entrance to the roundabout. Exactly the same as the example above, the car on Charlotte Ct must not enter if he will interfere with the traffic already on Hillsborough.

Argue all you would like but you will continue to be wrong.

[Randall55]

Wrong on both counts.

Imagine you have just turned onto Hillsborough from Morse (obviously, you are traveling west) and reach Charlotte Ct. there is a car on Charlotte Ct that pulls out from Charlotte Ct into your lane forcing you to hit the brakes to avoid hitting them. This is your example of a car on the right entering the roundabout. If the timing of the car entering causes you to hit the brakes then it is in the wrong. Certainly, you don't hit it, but you *do* recognize they were in the wrong.

When two vehicles arrive at the same time at an intersection with a stop sign, the car to the right goes first. When two cars arrive at an intersection that says "yield to vehicles on the left" or "vehicles from the left do not stop", then the car to the right yields. *That* is the sign that is posted at the entrance to the roundabout. Exactly the same as the example above, the car on Charlotte Ct must not enter if he will interfere with the traffic already on Hillsborough.

Argue all you would like but you will continue to be wrong.I have been driving the roundabouts for years. I can't remember even ONE TIME that someone cut me off. I try to visualize how this happens to others and I am at a loss. I'm not going to argue. I was just trying to see it from another perspective. Impossible to do when you did not witness the alleged cutting off.

[Normal]

Where do I find that in the Florida Statutes (which section)?

Police won’t usually ticket at 5 over because it is easily fought in court. Speed detection devices are at time off on calibration. Then there are arguments like radar verses laser, how soon since the last stop, is the equipment signed off for the day etc.

[Bill14564]

I have been driving the roundabouts for years. I can't remember even ONE TIME that someone cut me off. I try to visualize how this happens to others and I am at a loss. I'm not going to argue. I was just trying to see it from another perspective. Impossible to do when you did not witness the alleged cutting off.

Once I have had someone enter in the right hand lane next to me then choose to turn left in front of me.

Several times I have had cars fail to yield when I was already in the roundabout. Whether they were ignorant, inattentive, or just bad judges of distance, they entered when they should not have.

Certainly it happens but it is the fault of the driver, not of the design. (I am almost always against dumbing things down for the lowest common denominator)

[Randall55]

Once I have had someone enter in the right hand lane next to me then choose to turn left in front of me.

Several times I have had cars fail to yield when I was already in the roundabout. Whether they were ignorant, inattentive, or just bad judges of distance, they entered when they should not have.

Certainly it happens but it is the fault of the driver, not of the design. (I am almost always against dumbing things down for the lowest common denominator)I am 61 yrs old. I have never been in a car accident and have never received a traffic ticket. Not even a speeding ticket. When I drive, I keep a safe distance from other vehicles. I figure it is easier to slow down a bit than endure possible physical pain to my body or financial pain to my wallet. It is hard for me to understand why people just do not slow down a bit. When you do, you give yourself time to react.

[nn0wheremann]

Heres the view thru my windshield... its not any one person or any one thing, but as a collective whole driving civility is gone... in todays me, me, me world with the demands of instant gratification it's, I have to be first, and fastest, cause I have places to be, AND I want to talk on the phone while driving.
This area, especially in the Vill, has so many contractors running up and down the roads to get to the next job, its hard to keep out of their way. and this notion of just slow down... that's not going to work either, society just doesn't march to the same drumbeat. Now think back to your younger yrs... your teens... how many cars per family? 1 more than likely... today probably 4 (plus the toys)... do the math..
I was fortunate to have spent some time living in Texas, where signs all over the place reminded everyone to "Drive Friendly" Thats all it is... if some wants to go fast, let em, no signals, you just keep and eye out. riding right on your tail..slide over. You keep you safe! The rest will sort itself out. and when all else fails... Invest in a dash cam... works wonders in court.
About 13 years ago I spent a couple months in Maryland, staying in Howard County. The library there was giving away bumper stickers that read “CHOOSE CIVILITY”. I noticed these seemed to have a good effect on the traffic when on the Washington Beltway. Now we see rude messages about one thing or political person or another, and traffic just is not civil around here much of the time.

[nn0wheremann]

I have been driving the roundabouts for years. I can't remember even ONE TIME that someone cut me off. I try to visualize how this happens to others and I am at a loss. I'm not going to argue. I was just trying to see it from another perspective. Impossible to do when you did not witness the alleged cutting off.
Simple solution. The vehicle in the roundabout always has right of way over the vehicle not in the roundabout. The vehicle ahead in the roundabout always has right of way over the vehicle behind, so NEVER OVERTAKE OR PASS IN A ROUNDABOUT!!! Then there will be no accidents in roundabouts, and peace will rule the planet and love will steer the stars.

[fdpaq0580]

Just a reminder. At every entrance to a traffic circle, there is a yellow sign recommending that everyone should slow to 20 MPH. If we all do what dept of transportation recommends, avoiding accidents will be easy.

No hurry, no worry!😉

[Jdasta]

Don’t forget now, this is a retirement community full of elderly people that you chose to move to. Driving abilities become less & less. If you don’t have issues now, you soon will too. Just saying. Drive extra cautious
I am one of those elderly people. It is not a problem of elderly people driving. The people I see in the cars that are almost causing accidents are probably under 60. The average age of Villagers is now 63–down from 73. SO what does that say?

[Boffin]

Would that be dead right or dead wrong?

[Normal]

Just a reminder. At every entrance to a traffic circle, there is a yellow sign recommending that everyone should slow to 20 MPH. If we all do what dept of transportation recommends, avoiding accidents will be easy.

No hurry, no worry!������

Agreed.

There are a few out there that don’t bother to read the road signs before a roundabout which does differ from a circle. Different signage distinguishes what the lanes can be used for. Also there are lines painted on the ground that can be different from the last roundabout you drove in. There can be single lane mergence also in a roundabout. I think there are 4:different rule sets I’ve seen here in the Villages. If you are turning, be in the right lane, going through, stay in the left. Cars are permitted to turn left from the left if there is a solid line at the turn because the right lane cannot continue in the roundabout if there is a solid line painted.

Watch out for Jokers who think one set of rules covers every roundabout. If you don’t like them move to Lake County, they don’t like them either.

[Blackbird45]

I am going to get quite a bit of argument over this...here goes! If you are travelling straight thru a roundabout, it does not give you the right of way. If two vehicles enter the roundabout at the same time, the driver to the right GOES FIRST. They are not cutting in front if you. You are meant to reduce your speed and allow the other driver to enter. You do not fly thru the circle without any concern for vehicles on the side exits. Yes! Roundabouts are meant to keep traffic flowing. FOR ALL VEHICLES. Not merely those who are travelling straight thru. Slow down and yield are the rules.

I never said the same time. When there is a car already in the roundabout from a previous entrance and a driver see the approaching car just wait until they go by. I recently was coming around in a traffic circle and a car entered in front of me which was fine but was followed by a second car that didn't even bother to wait at the stop sign. The second car was so close to the first car they almost came to a stop not to hit the back of the first car. That's what I'm talking about, but if you think this is alright then you must have been the one driving that second car.

[gbs317]

No its not!

I am a slow driver and the fast drivers do not bother me at all. I just go along at my speed and I don't have a problem with the drivers who want to faster than me.
I’m all for you driving the speed limit or a little slower in the right lane. That is what it’s for. Those that drive slower in the left are just causing problems. If someone needs to pass you and your in the right side then that’s their job to safely pass you on the left.

[Girlcopper]

Next major complaint will be Wildwood PD overzealous, and booking far too many Village motorists!
Very true. Then there will be the complaints of….dont the cops have anything better to do than write tickets??

[ThirdOfFive]

Lots of bad drivers here in the Villages ..... but not so bad as in some other places. Just came back from Mauritius (Indian Ocean) and the people drive like crazed idiots. Narrow, twisting, turning roads that are extremely narrow and hilly. A ride in one of their taxi cabs will up your blood pressure and test your anxiety.
Lol! True words. We spend a fair amount of time in Thailand and a ride in a Bangkok cab is a guaranteed sphincter-clencher. I spend most of my time riding in them staring at the floor.

However driving that we experience in other countries is a bit different than here. For the most part the folks in Bangkok or Mauritius drive that way all the time and what we might see as reckless Evel-Knievelism on their part is really, given the circumstances, pretty well-calculated. Here, a lot of the problems are caused by people that have been significantly impacted by the debilities of age, physical and mental, which DOESN'T get better, only worse.

[bonrich]

One thing people forget about, or just don't realize, until its too late. The door post/windshield frame can hide stationary and moving objects. Small and LARGE. Be careful! Very careful, always. You may or may not see them. Do they, can they see you?
You are so right! The window, door frame, outside mirrors are major blockers when turning or pedestrians approaching and they hit that "blind" spot. It has caught me unawares a few times!

[Laker14]

Simple solution. The vehicle in the roundabout always has right of way over the vehicle not in the roundabout. The vehicle ahead in the roundabout always has right of way over the vehicle behind, so NEVER OVERTAKE OR PASS IN A ROUNDABOUT!!! Then there will be no accidents in roundabouts, and peace will rule the planet and love will steer the stars.

Wow, you make driving roundabouts sound like the dawning of The Age of Aquarius.

[Blueblaze]

Yeah, I was almost run over yesterday in my golfcart in the Morse traffic circle golf cart lane, from some lunatic in the inside lane turning to exit on El Camino without signaling, with a line of carts behind me waiting to cross El Camino. This idiot was traveling so fast, he hadn't even entered the circle on Morse from the highway when I started to cross at the next exit down from him. I'm halfway across and suddenly my wife screams and tires screech, as I watch this idiot screech to a stop 5ft short of hitting us -- with no blinkers on. I point at their dark blinkers and get the finger in response.

Yes, cars have the right-of-way. But you've gotta give us a clue to go on. How am I supposed to read your mind when you haven't even entered the circle yet? There is a reason the speed limit in the circle is 10, not 30.

[Normal]

Lol! True words. We spend a fair amount of time in Thailand and a ride in a Bangkok cab is a guaranteed sphincter-clencher. I spend most of my time riding in them staring at the floor.

However driving that we experience in other countries is a bit different than here. For the most part the folks in Bangkok or Mauritius drive that way all the time and what we might see as reckless Evel-Knievelism on their part is really, given the circumstances, pretty well-calculated. Here, a lot of the problems are caused by people that have been significantly impacted by the debilities of age, physical and mental, which DOESN'T get better, only worse.

Yep, age is a factor. The hurling cabs of Korea, the motorbikes of Italy, the jeepneys of the PI or the Trikes in many TCNs would make most cringe. In comparison to the staleness of traffic here, there really isn’t any because of age. But then drive the 5 in LA at about 7 AM.

[Laker14]

I am going to get quite a bit of argument over this...here goes! If you are travelling straight thru a roundabout, it does not give you the right of way. If two vehicles enter the roundabout at the same time, the driver to the right GOES FIRST. They are not cutting in front if you. You are meant to reduce your speed and allow the other driver to enter. You do not fly thru the circle without any concern for vehicles on the side exits. Yes! Roundabouts are meant to keep traffic flowing. FOR ALL VEHICLES. Not merely those who are travelling straight thru. Slow down and yield are the rules.

I assume that when you describe two vehicles entering at the same time, you mean from two different entrances, not side-by-side from the same entrance.
If I am correct in my assumption, then I think you are wrong about who would have the ROW.
When entering a roundabout the vehicles already in the roundabout, to your left, have the ROW over you entering the roundabout. If you are looking left at the previous entrance and you see someone entering the roundabout going fast enough that they are going to catch you as you enter, it is up to you to not enter. I think this happens fairly often because that vehicle is timing its entry based upon what's coming up on its left. It may choose to "gun it" to get ahead of what's coming.

[ThirdOfFive]

I am one of those elderly people. It is not a problem of elderly people driving. The people I see in the cars that are almost causing accidents are probably under 60. The average age of Villagers is now 63–down from 73. SO what does that say?

What does it say? It says that the source of that particular "fact" is provably wrong. Checking numerous websites, all of them give the average age of Villagers as over 70. The DataUSA website gives the average age as 72.7. Point2Homes agrees with this number. DataUSA gives the average age as 70.9 which is the lowest average among the numerous sites I visited.

Age, with the inevitable declines in physical and mental abilities that comes with it, plays a significant role in how a person drives, not just here but everywhere.

[JGibson]

Cops can't ticket you for doing over the speed limit unless you are doing more than 5mph over the posted limit.

Make roundabouts school zones.

Also, the 1-5 mph warning is documented.

[Maker]

I was intimidated at first. Sped up (speeding) to make them happy.
Now, I slowly slow down.
If they don't back off from my bumper I go even slower, eventually stopping. F-um.

They scream and shake their fist, and show me the first digit of their 2-digit IQ.

No you don't have a right to drive dangerously, intimidate, speeding, weaving thru traffic, road rage.


Not too many years ago, I had a tailgater and using a cell phone (texting). He ran into my rear at a yield sign. Towed his car to a repair shop. I had damage, but at least drivable.

Candidate for a few tickets...
Reckless driving
Road rage
Dangerous driving
Brake checking

Neither do you have a right to drive dangerously either.

[DonH57]

Just a reminder. At every entrance to a traffic circle, there is a yellow sign recommending that everyone should slow to 20 MPH. If we all do what dept of transportation recommends, avoiding accidents will be easy.

No hurry, no worry!😉

To many that means time to gun it so you're first in!:laugh:

[gorillarick]

Candidate for a few tickets...
Reckless driving
Road rage
Dangerous driving
Brake checking

Neither do you have a right to drive dangerously either.
A flick of the brake is a good idea when being tail-gated. You think that is illegal? Nope
But I did not.
Me, road rage? Nope The person behind me wanting to break the speed limit was in RoadRage way before they ever got on my butt. In my rear view mirror I saw them approaching at 80+.

Face it. You think you have more rights than anyone else on the road.

I drive a sports car, and formerly held a racing license. I could still do 4 times the speed limit, even thru traffic circles. But I don't.
Our main job on the road is to get there safely, and allow everyone else to do the same without scaring the crap out of people, intimidating, and being a JERK.

Nope. Slowing down, or even stopping in the road is not illegal either. Unsafe condition? I've seen people in TV stop and block both lanes and then get out and shew a Sand Crane. I do a facepalm (especially about getting out of their car), but can't say they are wrong.

[ThirdOfFive]

To many that means time to gun it so you're first in!:laugh:
Lol! True.

Back in the day we were traveling somewhere with our two kids (age 2 and 5) in the back seat. We were talking about "red means stop, green means go". I asked them "what does yellow mean"?

The reply? "Go faster".

[gorillarick]

I’m all for you driving the speed limit or a little slower in the right lane. That is what it’s for. Those that drive slower in the left are just causing problems. If someone needs to pass you and your in the right side then that’s their job to safely pass you on the left.
In Florida, it is legal to pass on either side when 2 lanes in one direction. Just go around.

[Bill14564]

In Florida, it is legal to pass on either side when 2 lanes in one direction. Just go around.

Florida says you *may* pass on the right (316.084). Florida also says you *must* move out of the leftmost lane if a faster vehicle is approaching from the rear (316.081(3)).

(EDIT: Better now?)

[fdpaq0580]

///

Yes. Thanks!

[jimjamuser]

I have been driving the roundabouts for years. I can't remember even ONE TIME that someone cut me off. I try to visualize how this happens to others and I am at a loss. I'm not going to argue. I was just trying to see it from another perspective. Impossible to do when you did not witness the alleged cutting off.
First of all, I'll admit that I am NOT a fan of roundabouts. I would like to read somewhere that a study was done that PROVES they are SAFER than red lights? 2nd - do they move traffic faster than red lights? 3rd - do they have FEWER accidents than red lights? 4th - do they cost less than red lights. And finally, just for my personal information - why put so many flowers on the roundabouts that need to be changed out 2 or 4 times per year? Why not have Florida tough plants that are NOT so big that they interfere with seeing the traffic ahead. And finally, why NOT TRY one lane roundabouts in lower traffic areas.
.......So, since a different perspective was ask for - I think that I tried to provide that.

[Davonu]

First of all, I'll admit that I am NOT a fan of roundabouts. I would like to read somewhere that a study was done that PROVES they are SAFER than red lights? 2nd - do they move traffic faster than red lights? 3rd - do they have FEWER accidents than red lights? 4th - do they cost less than red lights.
I was a Professional Engineer for 30 years with a Masters Degree in Transportation Engineering specializing in Traffic Control…

Roundabouts are:
1st & 3rd - definitely safer;
2nd - definitely more traffic efficient;
4th - definitely more cost efficient.

[gorillarick]

Florida says you *may* pass on the right (316.084). Florida also says you *must* move out of the leftmost lane if a faster vehicle is approaching from the rear (316.081(3)).

(EDIT: Better now?)
OK Bill, good research on left lane. From now on, I'll put my left turn signal ON when I see someone approaching me from behind at over twice the speed limit. sarc
In racing you are trained and required to hold your line. Good reason: Imagine at LeMans when the GT40s were doing over 200, coming up on a Sprite doing less than 100. Holding the line is predictable.

The person that approached me at 80+ when I was in a 45mph zone on 466, should have just gone around; it was completely clear to the right. But the person was already in Road Rage; I have no doubt.

But I wonder why you feel the need to speed all the time, , , and act obnoxious doing so. . . There's a chapter in the Mature Driving Course about how we no longer have the vision (including peripheral), perception, nor capable of making split second decisions as we did in our 20s. I'm a senior; my friends still say I'm sharp as a tack. But when I go to track days, I know differently. Maybe you should give it a try.
No, I don't need to speed down Morse and Buena Vista at twice the speed limit to prove anything to anyone, including myself. Nor, drive down the main gated roads like Pinellas, Bailey Trail, Stillwater, Odell, , , at 50 and 60.
I know life is fragile, one wrong move at those speeds and you could kill someone.
Have you thought about where your next stop in life is? I'm in no hurry to get there. I'm enjoying the scenery, and taking time to smell the roses.

nuff said

[Topspinmo]

Not surprised, I'm sad to say.

Cause villagers are majority of population.

[Topspinmo]

I am going to get quite a bit of argument over this...here goes! If you are travelling straight thru a roundabout, it does not give you the right of way. If two vehicles enter the roundabout at the same time, the driver to the right GOES FIRST. They are not cutting in front if you. You are meant to reduce your speed and allow the other driver to enter. You do not fly thru the circle without any concern for vehicles on the side exits. Yes! Roundabouts are meant to keep traffic flowing. FOR ALL VEHICLES. Not merely those who are travelling straight thru. Slow down and yield are the rules.


Wrong the driver on right has to exit at first or second (straight through exit) so there would be no cutting through, unless the m——- don’t know was in wrong lane to go to 3rd exit. Another thing vehicle entering at the first exit HAS to yield to vehicles IN the roundabout so they should not be in roundabout at all.

[jimjamuser]

I was a Professional Engineer for 30 years with a Masters Degree in Transportation Engineering specializing in Traffic Control…

Roundabouts are:
1st & 3rd - definitely safer;
2nd - definitely more traffic efficient;
4th - definitely more cost efficient.
OK thanks. I will take your word for that. I appreciate your expertise!

[jimjamuser]

I was a Professional Engineer for 30 years with a Masters Degree in Transportation Engineering specializing in Traffic Control…

Roundabouts are:
1st & 3rd - definitely safer;
2nd - definitely more traffic efficient;
4th - definitely more cost efficient.
OK, that brings up one more question - Clearwater and many Scandinavian countries have roundabouts with only ONE lane. How does one lane vs 2 lanes compare for accidents and other aspects?

[Normal]

I was a Professional Engineer for 30 years with a Masters Degree in Transportation Engineering specializing in Traffic Control…

Roundabouts are:
1st & 3rd - definitely safer;
2nd - definitely more traffic efficient;
4th - definitely more cost efficient.

I wonder what they would do for the aweful traffic congestion on 27 441 up in the northern Villages? Right now it’s best to avoid the area like the plague.

[kendi]

Unless an accident already happened, then their all over blocking traffic.
Yep, been here 8 years and seen only on traffic stop and that was a 18 wheeler. :doh:

We’ve been seeing cops pulling over cars a lot South of 44. Especially on Warm Springs.

[Hank’s mom]

Everyday now when I leave the house I say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red Toyota Rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.I enjoyed driving then. What has happened?

I seriously don't know what has happened. I have never seen anything like it!!! I feel like the only safe way to travel is by cart or early. Like going to church this morning it was fun, but yesterday at 1:00, people stopped their cars (happened twice) while they were in the turn abouts and waved me on to go!! I just shook my head!

[ThirdOfFive]

First of all, I'll admit that I am NOT a fan of roundabouts. I would like to read somewhere that a study was done that PROVES they are SAFER than red lights? 2nd - do they move traffic faster than red lights? 3rd - do they have FEWER accidents than red lights? 4th - do they cost less than red lights. And finally, just for my personal information - why put so many flowers on the roundabouts that need to be changed out 2 or 4 times per year? Why not have Florida tough plants that are NOT so big that they interfere with seeing the traffic ahead. And finally, why NOT TRY one lane roundabouts in lower traffic areas.
.......So, since a different perspective was ask for - I think that I tried to provide that.
Apparently roundabouts do have their positives: they are demonstrably safer as both serious injuries and deaths at intersections decreased when they were implemented, but we surely did seem to be in a rush to implement them. In Minnesota it was about 20-odd years ago that installation began, with very little forethought: apparently the rush had something to do with claiming federal dollars. It SNOWS in Minnesota. Often very heavily. And when some of the first roundabouts went in, it was learned the following winter that the roundabouts were built so tightly that the plowing equipment needed to clear the snow off them was in many cases just too big. Didn't read too much about it but some of the planners had some egg on their face over that particular faux pas.

[Davonu]

OK, that brings up one more question - Clearwater and many Scandinavian countries have roundabouts with only ONE lane. How does one lane vs 2 lanes compare for accidents and other aspects?
The specific design of roundabouts is based largely on the nature of the approaching roadways. When properly designed, safety and efficiency are superior to signalized or signed intersections regardless of the number of lanes.

That being said, there are some road and traffic situations where a roundabout is not the proper intersection design.

[fdpaq0580]

We’ve been seeing cops pulling over cars a lot South of 44. Especially on Warm Springs.

Good!

[jimjamuser]

The specific design of roundabouts is based largely on the nature of the approaching roadways. When properly designed, safety and efficiency are superior to signalized or signed intersections regardless of the number of lanes.

That being said, there are some road and traffic situations where a roundabout is not the proper intersection design.
Thank you !

[Laker14]

The specific design of roundabouts is based largely on the nature of the approaching roadways. When properly designed, safety and efficiency are superior to signalized or signed intersections regardless of the number of lanes.

That being said, there are some road and traffic situations where a roundabout is not the proper intersection design.


I think a roundabout at the intersection of Morse and 466 would be great.
Not really.

[Normal]

I think a roundabout at the intersection of Morse and 466 would be great.
Not really.

That would be a traffic circle instead, not a round about

[Laker14]

That would be a traffic circle instead, not a round about

why is that?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Why all the complaining? Folks love Florida because here they are “free” citizens living in a “free” state. So, “free” citizens enjoy it. In a “free” state, it’s every man, and woman, for themselves.

interesting quote from a russian immigrant co-worker of mine, which is the essence of the original post:

in a communistic government, you fear the government.
in a free society, you fear each other. .

think about that for awhile, and sentiment is this thread's discussion.

[NJRICHARD]

everyday now when i leave the house i say a little prayer for a safe trip. Yesterday, three near collisions. A car making a left turn right in front of my car on 301–this happens frequently. But this time the driver almost caused an accident—he was that close! Another was a car entering a turnaround with my car right in front of hers! She stopped just in the nick of time. Another time was again on 301–a driver weaving in and out of traffic. He almost collided with my car when cutting into my lane.
Then there was the driver of a red toyota rav 4 who sped right through a turnaround without even slowing down, as if the turnaround did not exist.
We moved here 3 years ago.i enjoyed driving then. What has happened?

it's like the bumper cars that we paid $ to ride, only now it's with full size cars.

[Maker]

A flick of the brake is a good idea when being tail-gated. You think that is illegal? Nope
But I did not.
Me, road rage? Nope The person behind me wanting to break the speed limit was in RoadRage way before they ever got on my butt. In my rear view mirror I saw them approaching at 80+.

Face it. You think you have more rights than anyone else on the road.

I drive a sports car, and formerly held a racing license. I could still do 4 times the speed limit, even thru traffic circles. But I don't.
Our main job on the road is to get there safely, and allow everyone else to do the same without scaring the crap out of people, intimidating, and being a JERK.

Nope. Slowing down, or even stopping in the road is not illegal either. Unsafe condition? I've seen people in TV stop and block both lanes and then get out and shew a Sand Crane. I do a facepalm (especially about getting out of their car), but can't say they are wrong.

So many people fail to understand the distinction between exercising their rights and the consequences.
It is your constitutional right to scream fire in a crowded theater. 100% permitted to do so by the constitution. However when that is false information, there are legal consequences to doing that action.

Driving on a road comes with a set of laws. Drivers are expected to do things when certain conditions happen. Such as stopping for an obstruction or dangerous condition in the road. However, stopping when there is no reasonable reason to stop is illegal. Brake checking, tapping the brakes to indicate a stop, are all illegal because there is no justification to do so. Maybe it's ok in a race car on a race track, but not on a public street.

Legal standards attempt to take into consideration the motive for somebody's actions. Was driver trying to "teach the car behind a lesson?" That is converting a normally legal action into something illegal. Better hope it never results in causing an accident. (Saw car in front trying to stop and I changed lanes to avoid a collision. Didn't expect that other car was so close and everyone crashed.)

[Michael G.]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=102540&stc=1&d=1706570337

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

interesting quote from a russian immigrant co-worker of mine, which is the essence of the original post:

in a communistic government, you fear the government.
in a free society, you fear each other. .

think about that for awhile, and sentiment is this thread's discussion.

I’ll take my chances with my fellow man.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I’ll take my chances with my fellow man.

So will I, but it's an interesting perspective, and one I had never thought about, not being familiar with a communistic country, but I can understand after listening to the russian stories.

[j_vermilya]

the reason for the traffic being worse, which it is, is because with the overdevelopment we have practically doubled in size.

[ElDiabloJoe]

I was a Professional Engineer for 30 years with a Masters Degree in Transportation Engineering specializing in Traffic Control…

Roundabouts are:
1st & 3rd - definitely safer;
2nd - definitely more traffic efficient;
4th - definitely more cost efficient.

IMHO, the definitive mic-drop post right here.
(door slamming on the entire topic)

[golfing eagles]

I just love these traffic threads:1rotfl: They all start with some anecdote about near misses or stupid RB moves or a slow driver or a speeder and eventually we get the following:

***14 posters will "tell" us how to properly navigate a RB, unfortunately 9 of them will be wrong, and 23 others will jump all over them.

***6 posters will tell us they drive "slow", both in car and cart and everybody else has to live with that---then 22 posts will appropriately chastise them

***At least two posters will, because they always do, clamor for "more law enforcement, more tickets, more police", as if everyone else wants to live in their Orwellian nightmare.

*** And my favorite, which popped up on this thread for the first time in about 5 or 6 years, is the poster that would intentionally and in a juvenile fashion slow down or even stop in front of someone who wants to pass, which is not only illegal but highly dangerous to everyone in the vicinity. They justify this with the delusional thinking that they are self-appointed guardians of the speed limit laws, even though they may beak half a dozen other laws in the process. They may think they can dictate driving decisions to others, but in reality, they only think that. Let's hope one of these clowns doesn't try it on an armed driver prone to road rage.

[Boffin]

I just love these traffic threads:1rotfl: They all start with some anecdote about near misses or stupid RB moves or a slow driver or a speeder and eventually we get the following:

***14 posters will "tell" us how to properly navigate a RB, unfortunately 9 of them will be wrong, and 23 others will jump all over them.

***6 posters will tell us they drive "slow", both in car and cart and everybody else has to live with that---then 22 posts will appropriately chastise them

***At least two posters will, because they always do, clamor for "more law enforcement, more tickets, more police", as if everyone else wants to live in their Orwellian nightmare.

*** And my favorite, which popped up on this thread for the first time in about 5 or 6 years, is the poster that would intentionally and in a juvenile fashion slow down or even stop in front of someone who wants to pass, which is not only illegal but highly dangerous to everyone in the vicinity. They justify this with the delusional thinking that they are self-appointed guardians of the speed limit laws, even though they may beak half a dozen other laws in the process. They may think they can dictate driving decisions to others, but in reality, they only think that. Let's hope one of these clowns doesn't try it on an armed driver prone to road rage.

So it is possible that some of the people posting on this thread are the same people the thread is about.

[fdpaq0580]

So it is possible that some of the people posting on this thread are the same people the thread is about.

VERY likely! It's even possible, though not necessarily probable, that you may have responded to one.
As for me, I occasionally feel a bit of road rage. But I'm not armed and my rage is expressed verbally, but in a quiet way. So, unless you read lips very well, my rage will be my secret. Per usual, you will only see my smile. Have a nice day.